Harry Styles Surprises Fans By Secretly Running Berlin Marathon in Under Three Hours Under Pseudonym "Sted Sarandos"

In a move that exemplifies both humility and athletic prowess, Harry Styles, the three-time Grammy-winning artist celebrated for his groundbreaking music and advocacy for LGBTQ+ inclusivity, completed the 2025 Berlin Marathon on Sunday, September 21, without any fanfare or public announcement. According to marathon organizers and coverage by USA Today, Styles finished the race in 2 hours, 59 minutes, and 13 seconds, a personal best that marked a significant improvement from his previous marathon performance at the Tokyo Marathon earlier this year, where he clocked in at 3:24:07.

Styles, age 31, participated under the pseudonym "Sted Sarandos," a playful nod that allowed him to blend into the crowd of over 55,000 runners. His identity was further concealed by wearing a headband and sunglasses, enabling him to focus on the race without distraction or media attention. Despite the secrecy, his accomplishment did not go unnoticed, as Paralympic gold medalist Richard Whitehead shared a photo of Styles at the finish line on Instagram, humorously captioning, “Anyone know him!!”.

Beyond his athletic achievement, Styles’ marathon participation resonates deeply within LGBTQ+ circles, where authenticity and representation remain central. Known for challenging gender norms and supporting the LGBTQ+ community through his fashion, philanthropy, and public statements, Styles has become an icon of inclusivity and acceptance. His decision to run the marathon discreetly reflects his ongoing commitment to living authentically, a value celebrated by LGBTQ+ advocates worldwide.

Styles’ openness about his identity and his advocacy for marginalized groups have made him a role model for many LGBTQ+ youth. The marathon achievement, while not directly related to LGBTQ+ activism, underscores the importance of visibility and self-determination—principles at the heart of Pride. For many, seeing a global superstar like Styles participate in a public event in such a genuine way sends a powerful message: LGBTQ+ individuals can and should take up space in all arenas, from music to sports to activism.

News of Styles’ marathon run quickly spread across social media platforms, with fans and fellow runners expressing admiration for his athleticism and humility. Many posts highlighted the significance of a queer-affirming celebrity excelling in a traditionally cishet-dominated space, using hashtags like #ProudRunner and #StylesForAll. LGBTQ+ influencers and community leaders praised Styles for his continued commitment to visibility and positive representation, noting that his actions challenge stereotypes and encourage broader acceptance.

Styles’ marathon time—2:59:13—is particularly noteworthy among recreational runners, as breaking the three-hour barrier is considered a significant achievement. His average pace of 4:15 minutes per kilometer (about 6:50 per mile) placed him 2,241st overall and 524th in his age category, underscoring the serious dedication required to reach such a milestone.

While marathon running may seem worlds apart from pop stardom, Styles’ participation highlights the interconnectedness of sport, culture, and advocacy. In recent years, marathons have increasingly become spaces where LGBTQ+ runners are visible and celebrated, with Pride Run events and rainbow-themed gear now a common sight in major races. Styles’ involvement in the Berlin Marathon, one of the world’s largest and most prestigious races, bolsters the narrative that LGBTQ+ people belong everywhere—including the starting line.

The Berlin Marathon itself is renowned for its inclusive atmosphere and international reach, drawing athletes from over 130 countries. This global stage provided Styles an opportunity to reinforce his message of unity and visibility, even as he avoided the spotlight. As coverage of his achievement circulates, LGBTQ+ organizations are using the moment to advocate for greater inclusion in sports, emphasizing the need for safe, affirming spaces for all athletes, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.

Styles’ marathon time stands out when compared to other celebrity runners. For instance, Colin Farrell completed the 2021 Brisbane Marathon in 3:53:14 and the 2024 Dublin Marathon in 4:45:00, while Jennifer Connelly finished the New York City Marathon in 3:45:47. Ashton Kutcher’s 2022 NYC Marathon finish was 3:54:01. Styles’ sub-three-hour marathon places him among the fastest celebrity marathoners in recent history, further cementing his reputation for discipline and perseverance.

For LGBTQ+ fans and allies, Styles’ marathon run is more than just a sports story—it’s a celebration of possibility, individuality, and pride. By participating incognito and focusing on personal achievement over publicity, Styles has modeled what it means to pursue one’s passions authentically. The outpouring of support from fans and the LGBTQ+ community reflects the enduring impact of role models who live their truth and inspire others to do the same.

As the world continues to celebrate Styles’ latest accomplishment, advocates and organizations are taking the opportunity to highlight the importance of inclusion in sports. The message is clear: visibility matters, and every stride taken in authenticity brings us closer to a more accepting and affirming world.